Morobo County and DRC Strengthen Cross Border Cooperation

(MOROBO COUNTY) – Morobo County Commissioner Charles Data Bullen held a high level cross-border meeting with the Administrator of Aru Region in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Colonel Richard Mbambi, at Kengezi Border Post near Bazi Trading Centre on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

The meeting came after five weeks of rising tensions between Morobo County and neighbouring Congolese authorities, following incidents of unauthorised border crossings and the detention of combatants on both sides. The discussions aimed to reduce tension and strengthen collaboration between the two administrations.

Commissioner Data was joined by the County Executive Director, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) Area Commander, the Paramount Chief and community elders.

He said the dialogue was essential to restoring calm and promoting peaceful coexistence along the border. The commissioner reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resolving territorial and security matters through cooperation and dialogue.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged detainees and returned confiscated items as a gesture of goodwill. Commissioner Data handed over two motorcycles and two AK-47 rifles recovered from detained Congolese nationals. In return, Colonel Mbambi released two South Sudanese nationals who had been detained in the DRC and returned one rifle.

Both leaders pledged to enhance coordination between their security forces to prevent future incidents and to address emerging cross border concerns.

The Chief of Kakwa in the DRC, David Tsukia, described the meeting as a historic step towards long term solutions for the region. He highlighted both administrations’ commitment to regular cross border engagements to build trust, strengthen cooperation and maintain peaceful relations.

In statement by the County Press Unit, the Morobo County Administration emphasised its dedication to fostering peace, stability and good neighbourliness for the benefit of communities on both sides of the international border.